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#3 Netherlands' substitutes add gloss to a terrific performance
After Denzel Dumfries made it 4-0 for the Netherlands, the match lost steam. The Netherlands took their foot off the pedal, while Gibraltar were simply content to absorb pressure.
However, some excellent substitutions from Louis van Gaal meant there were two more goals in the final quarter of the match. That added further gloss to the scoreline, making the match seem like a complete rout.
Arnaut Danjuma and Wout Weghorst, who came on at the same time (at the hour mark), combined for the fifth goal. The latter headed Depay's cross into Danjuma's path, who steered home a crisp volley from ten yards.
Just a few minutes after that goal, Malen came onto the pitch, and joined in on the act with just four minutes of normal time remaining. The 22-year-old latched onto a pristine through-ball from Depay, and made a composed finish beyond Banda.
The Netherlands were looking good at 4-0. But their immense quality off the bench meant the side extended their lead further and completed a stunning 13-0 win over Gibraltar across two games.
#2 Banda's heroics on Gibraltar debut win hearts
Gibraltar had a new player manning the sticks in Bradley Banda, a 23-year-old goalkeeper who plies his trade with local side Europa FC. Going up against a free-scoring Netherlands side gave him a baptism of fire on his international debut, but it wasn't all gloom and doom.
In the first half, Banda pulled off a stunning stop to save Depay's penalty by guessing the right way. He palmed the Barcelona striker's effort away with strong hands, in a crowning moment for him.
Depay soon redeemed himself, and found the net twice in quick succession. But it was a moment to savour for the young custodian who is only starting out with Los Llanis. On a night of heavy pummelling, it was a rare sight to cherish for the away fans.
#1 Netherlands in firm control of their qualifying group
Louis van Gaal's side hold only a two-point lead at the top of Group G. with as many games remaining in the qualifying campaign. But their form suggests they should book their place in Qatar.
The Netherlands have been the most impressive outfit, not just in the group, but in the entire UEFA zone. That is thanks to their free-scoring form and Memphis Depay's stellar performances in front of goal.
They have scored 29 goals in eight games, an average of more than three and a half goals a game, while conceding only six times. Needless to say, both are the best stats in their FIFA World Cup qualifying group.
On the final day, they take on Norway, who're second and competing with Turkey to advance into the next round. Presuming the Nordic outfit emerges victorious in their ninth game, a lot will be riding on this game.
So Netherlands can expect a tough contest. But even then, they've been so good since losing to Turkey on the opening day that the Oranje look good to go through.
